“ The Federal Government has announced that there will be a 50th anniversary of the end of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War, which will be managed by DVA.
There is very little to advise as to the format of the anniversary at this time, but we have been advised that there is a meeting at DVA of this planning committee on the 17 Feb 23, chaired by Maj Gen Stuart Smith AO DSC (retd), and more information will be forthcoming post this meeting.
In broad outline, however, it would appear that there will be an appropriate ceremony to commemorate the cessation of the Vietnam War for the ADF and most importantly to remember those who did not return on Friday the 18th of August 2023 at the Vietnam War Memorial on Anzac Parade, Canberra.
At this time a march is not envisaged, and all other arrangements, of travel, accommodation, and unit or sub-unit reunions are up to those to arrange.
Being mindful that so many Vietnam veterans are perhaps due to health and wealth unable to travel, the Vietnam Veterans community is being encouraged to perhaps arrange their own commemoration in situ in various parts of Australia, where grant money is available through the Grants Hub to assist in the financing of any such event.
Once more is known you will be the first to be advised.“
Duty First
Mike von Berg MC OAM
RARA National President
